How to store my Seafood

Storing Seafood in the Best Conditions

‘Fresh is best’ and seafood where possible should be consumed soon after purchase. However It is not always practical for us to eat our seafood straight away so here are some tips to help you keep your Seafood in prime condition;

Refrigerating

1. Always make sure the seafood is covered appropriately. Place on a plate or tray and cover with a damp cloth. Then you should place some plastic wrap over the top.

2. Never allow it to sit in its own juice

3. Place in the coldest part of your fridge – seafood is best refrigerated at 0 – 4 degrees

Fresh fish: After storing correctly, eat within 2-3 days.

Squid, cuttlefish and octopus: clean and rinse it before you store in the fridge. Use within 2 – 3 days.

Prawns and other dead shellfish: These should be consumed as soon as possible. If you are storing in the fridge, follow the instructions above but you can forego the damp cloth.

Live crustaceans: Like prawns, you should eat these ASAP after you buy them. Before consuming, keep them in a container in a cool place with a damp cloth over the top, making sure the cloth remains damp.

Live molluscs (mussels, oysters etc.): Unlike other seafoods, store these in the warmest part of the refrigerator, optimally at 5°C. Place a damp cloth over it when storing. 

Freezing

Place in an airtight freezer bag, extract as much air as possible, label and date.

Whole non-oily fish: can be frozen for up to 6 months 

Whole oily fish and all fish fillets: can be frozen for up to 3 months

Crustaceans (except prawns): Freeze for up to 3 months    

Prawns: The ideal way to freeze prawns is in frozen block form. Best is to leave the shell and head on, as this acts as an insulator. Place prawns in a freezer proof container, filling the container to three quarters with product and leaving room for water to be added. Cover with water, seal with lid. Label and date.

For further queries please email us at info@manettas.com.au